Suitcase sparks city security alert

A SECURITY alert was sparked in Manchester today after a suspicious package was found underneath a main route into the city just before the rush-hour. Police were called after the suitcase was spotted in a car park underneath the Mancunian Way near to the All Saints Manchester Metropolitan Building on Oxford Road at around 7am.

A SECURITY alert was sparked in Manchester today after a suspicious package was found underneath a main route into the city just before the rush-hour.

Police were called after the suitcase was spotted in a car park underneath the Mancunian Way near to the All Saints Manchester Metropolitan Building on Oxford Road at around 7am.

Bomb disposal experts were immediately called in and police closed off the flyover causing traffic to back onto Oxford Road and roads leading onto the short stretch of motorway.

A police spokesman said this morning: "At this stage police officers do not believe that the package holds any specific threat, but have isolated the car park and evacuated the nearby University buildings as a precaution to ensure public safety.

"Officers are in the process of closing the Mancunian Way and a section of Oxford Road to all road users.

"Diversions have been put in place to limit the disruption and we thank the public for their patience at this time.

"In line with standard procedure the army Bomb Disposal Squad are on their way to the scene to ensure that the package is made safe.

"Greater Manchester Police want to reassure the public that while they need to remain alert, they should not be alarmed.

"Members of the public can help by going about their daily business, remaining vigilant at all times and reporting anything which appears suspicious, and especially by taking extra care not to leave bags or packages unattended."